Legendary England fast bowler James Anderson says Australia is favourite to win the men's Ashes series on home soil, but feels the hosts will field their "weakest" team in 15 years.

The first Ashes Test begins on Friday in Perth, with Australia missing inspirational captain Pat Cummins because of injury.

There is much debate surrounding the make-up of Australia's batting line-up, with opener Jake Weatherald potentially in line to make his Test debut.

England has not won an Ashes series in Australia since 2010/11.

Anderson said Australia was vulnerable, but he believed it would still win this summer's series.

"Australia has been so strong and so consistent in their team selection over the last 10 years, that this probably is their weakest team [in the past 15 years]," Anderson told TNT

See Full Page